Tip #1: Maintaining Your Best Smile Is Easier Than Treating It
For better or worse, we are judged on the appearance of our teeth. When it comes to retaining your best smile, Mother Nature often works against us. The protective layer of enamel that coats our teeth thins with age.
This natural process allows the yellower dentin to show through. Aging also allows for the accumulation of staining from food, drinks, or tobacco use. To maintain your best smile, there are simple steps that can slow the process of yellowing.
There’s a reason that your dentist and hygienist emphasize the importance of good oral hygiene habits. Preserving your natural tooth structure takes daily effort. Many of the issues that result from poor oral hygiene habits can create barriers between you and your best smile. Dental cleanings are another great way to keep your teeth looking healthy (& better your chances for a celebrity smile).
Tip #2: Invest In Your Smile
We invest in important things all the time: college tuition, car maintenance, health insurance, etc. So why not invest in your smile? To put your best smile forward, start by looking at the quality of your oral hygiene appliances. What better place to start caring for your oral health than your toothbrush.
The humble toothbrush is your best line of defense against tooth decay and gum disease. It’s surprising most Americans are only willing to spend $10 on a new toothbrush every several months at best.
For a small investment, an electric toothbrush can pay dividends. The advanced devices vibrate thousands of times per minute to remove plaque and mild tartar buildups. A traditional toothbrush simply cannot match the cleaning power of these devices. Many models allow for removable heads that can be replaced.
Another great cleaning appliance is a water flosser. The handheld device shoots a small jet of water that clears debris from between your teeth and strengthens gums. Traditional floss is hard to handle, especially for people who have arthritis or prosthetics.
Running a water flosser across your gums takes less than a minute. The effort can prevent gum disease and other dental problems.
Finally, not all toothpastes and mouthwashes are created equal. Look for products that have the ADA Seal of Approval.
Spending a little more for a brand name product that offers safe teeth whitening is worth the effort. The old mantra “You get what you pay for” appropriately applies to dental care. To enjoy your best smile for the rest of your life requires a small investment in quality dental hygiene products.
Tip #3: Get you best smile by considering cosmetic dentistry
Even when proper oral hygiene steps are followed, many people can still benefit from cosmetic dentistry. Many of us, whether due to an accident or genetics, simply have teeth that are misshapen or misaligned. Cosmetic dentistry allows the dentist to blend artistry with dentistry, so you can enjoy a gorgeous smile.
The first step begins with your cosmetic dentist consultation. Dr. James Fondriest will carefully listen to your cosmetic goals before recommending one or more treatments for your smile makeover.
Cosmetic dentistry can address teeth that are:
Dr. Fondriest offers a wide range of cosmetic and dental care services that include:
Porcelain Crowns
To correct a damaged or too small tooth, Dr. Fondriest can fit you with a natural looking crown. Porcelain matches the color and luster of enamel. Placing a crown that looks real and shaped normally requires the removal of natural tooth structure, meaning the treatment is not reversible.
Porcelain and No-Prep Veneers
Many patients wonder what are veneers? If you are looking for a Hollywood smile, porcelain veneers can completely revamp your teeth. These thin shells are custom made to alter the size, color, and shape of teeth. Our office offers minimal- and no-prep veneers as an alternative to traditional dental veneers. Dr. Fondriest will recommend conservative treatments when possible, meaning that you may only require a few veneers to achieve drastic results.
Cosmetic Bonding
Cosmetic tooth bonding uses tooth colored composite resin. The pliable material can address a wide range of aesthetic blemishes. Bonding is one of the more affordable cosmetic treatments we offer. However, the material will need to be replaced every several years.
Gum Lift
Some patients suffer from a gummy smile” that obscures the natural shape and beauty of their teeth. Dr. Fondriest can use an advanced laser to artfully remove small amounts of gum tissue to deliver your best smile.
Teeth Whitening
Under the careful supervision of one of our team members, teeth whitening can brighten your smile by several shades. The procedure does not alter the natural structure of your teeth.
When you brush your teeth in the morning, are you happy with what you see? We live in the age of endless selfies. That reality can leave some of us feeling insecure about the appearance of our smiles. The good news is that these tips can help you put your best smile forward.